Vulnerability. It’s a concept I know well as I embark on my new journey as a business owner. The feeling of freedom as I become my own boss and bring my vision to life is as exciting as it is terrifying. I am thrilled to pursue my passion but scared of failing. What if I don’t get any clients? What if someone rates me poorly online? What if they don’t like me? What if I can’t help someone? What if I am not good enough?

If you are reading this because you have been searching for a therapist or you just happened to stumble across it, either way I’m sure you know the feeling of vulnerability as well. It’s terrifying to take a leap of faith and put ourselves out there, no matter how big or small the risk. Dr. Brené Brown is an expert on vulnerability. The title of this blog post is a quote from her book “Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead.” I highly recommend her books and TED talks. She talks about issues that we all experience yet don’t discuss, like shame, courage, authenticity, and of course, vulnerability.

Vulnerability is not a weakness. It takes so much courage to put yourself out there and to show up, not knowing the outcome. Whether you are looking for a therapist to share your deepest secrets and concerns with, beginning a new romance, or even trying a new workout class, putting ourselves out there with authenticity takes courage. We should acknowledge this and be proud of ourselves for trying instead of berating ourselves or staying home and holding ourselves back because we are afraid of “what if.” Because what if we succeed? What if we discover a new passion? What if we ARE good enough?

I encourage each of you reading this post to do one thing outside of your comfort zone and see how it feels. I am 100% out of my comfort zone, but I am learning to embrace the discomfort and uncertainty. I know you can too.